See the Sound

Explore the energy of sound by feeling and seeing the vibrations. Students observe the relationship between vibrations and sound using Tibetan singing bowls, tuning forks, laser light oscilloscopes, and more. Alter vibrations and observe how sound changes what is seen, felt and heard.

Minimum/Maximum class size: 16/32 students

Grade Level:

3, 4 and 5

Learning Goals:

Sound is produced by vibrating objects.

Changing an object’s properties, such as size or speed of vibration affects pitch.

Sound can be observed through senses other than hearing (sight, touch).

Sound energy can be described by the pattern of its motion.

Academic Standard Strand:

Nature of Science & Engineering

Physical Science

View connections to Minnesota Academic Standards

Academic Standard - Science 3.1.1.2.1

Grade:

3

Subject:

Science

Strand:

1. The Nature of Science and Engineering

3.1.1.2.1

Generate questions that can be answered when scientific knowledge is combined with knowledge gained from one's own observations or investigations. For example: Investigate the sounds produced by striking various objects.

Academic Standard - Science 3.2.3.1.1

Grade:

3

Subject:

Science

Strand:

2. Physical Science

3.2.3.1.1

Explain the relationship between the pitch of a sound, the rate of vibration of the source, and factors that affect pitch. For example: Changing the length of a string that is plucked changes the pitch.

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This activity is funded, in part, through the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund as appropriated by the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the Legacy Amendment vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008. Learn More